Eric Butler was named the most consistent player in the Norwood Senior Colts of 1950 and made his League debut in 1952. He made seven appearances for the season, and was selected at half back for the Grand Final. Butler was named the League team's best junior and the Reserves' most improved player for 1952.

He found a regular spot in the League side from 1953, and did not miss a game on his way to his Player Five Year Certificate.

Early in his career, Butler played predominantly as a half-back flanker, but he roved in the 1955 Second Semi-Final against Port Adelaide. He kicked five goals in a superb display, and went on to develop into one of the best utility footballers in the competition.

He was named as a ruck-rover, changing across half forward, in the losing Grand Finals of 1955 and 1957.

Butler represented the State Second Eighteen against Essendon and Geelong in 1956, and was a member of the 1956 and 1958 sides that took out the Advertiser Cup, a night series held on the Norwood Oval.

He won the club's best utility awards in 1957 and 1958.

Hardly missing a game throughout his career, Butler played his 100th match in 1957, and made his last appearance in the 1958 First Semi-Final.

At the end of 1958, Butler was appointed playing coach of Echuca in the Bendigo Football League.